John Davies
Runner and coach, 1974 Commonwealth Games
Born
1938
88 years ago
Died
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
New Zealand
Links & References
Born in England and later settled in New Zealand, a middle-distance runner became notable for competitive achievements in the 1970s. Won a bronze medal in the men's 1500 meters at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch while representing New Zealand. Transitioned into coaching, focusing on developing young athletes in New Zealand. Contributed significantly to the athletics community through mentorship and training programs.
Bronze medal in men's 1500m at 1974 Commonwealth Games
Coached young athletes in New Zealand
Other People Who Died on July 21st
François Sébastien Charles Joseph de Croix
Austrian Field Marshal, Count of Clerfayt
Born
October 14th, 1733 293 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1798 228 years ago — 64 years old
Born in 1733, a prominent Austrian field marshal served in the Habsburg military during the Seven Years' War and the War of the Austrian Succession. Recognized for effective leadership and tactical skill in numerous battles, particularly in the campaigns against Prussia and France. Participated in several key confrontations, displaying strategic acumen that earned respect among contemporaries. Elevated to the rank of field marshal and awarded the title of Count of Clerfayt, positioned as a significant military figure in 18th-century European conflicts, ultimately contributing to the Habsburg Monarchy's military legacy.
Continue ReadingLee Miller
American photographer and model
Born
April 23rd, 1907 119 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1977 49 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent figure in 20th-century photography, this individual transitioned from a successful modeling career to becoming a notable war correspondent during World War II. During the war, worked for Vogue, capturing powerful images of the conflict and its aftermath. Developed a unique photographic style that encompassed both fashion and documentary work. The portfolio included portraits of prominent artists and writers of the time.
Continue ReadingClaus von Stauffenberg
German Colonel and Resistance Leader
Born
November 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1944 82 years ago — 36 years old
A German army officer, famous for leading the July 20 plot in 1944 to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Stauffenberg joined the German Army and rose through the ranks during World War II. Dissatisfaction with the Nazi regime led to conspiracy efforts among military officers. Stauffenberg's role involved placing a bomb in Hitler's briefing room, although the attempt ultimately failed. Captured shortly after the attempt, he was executed by firing squad. His actions are often cited as a pivotal moment of resistance against the regime.
Continue ReadingEdward B. Lewis
American biologist and Nobel Laureate
Born
May 20th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2004 22 years ago — 86 years old
An American biologist and geneticist contributed significantly to the understanding of genetic mechanisms through research on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1995 for discovering genes controlling the development of body plan in organisms. His academic career included teaching at the California Institute of Technology, influencing generations of scientists. Conducted groundbreaking studies elucidating the role of homeotic genes in regulating the development of body segments.
Continue ReadingMikhail Mikhaylovich Gerasimov
Russian anthropologist and sculptor
Born
1907 119 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1970 56 years ago — 63 years old
Contributions included the development of techniques for facial reconstruction from skulls, revolutionizing the field of physical anthropology. Worked on the reconstruction of historical figures, including those from ancient cultures. Served as an academic leader at the Institute of Ethnography and the Institute of Archaeology in Moscow, guiding research and education in anthropology and archaeology.
Continue ReadingRuth St. Denis
Dancer and educator, Denishawn School founder
Born
January 20th, 1879 147 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1968 58 years ago — 89 years old
Pioneer in modern dance, contributed to the development and popularization of dance as an art form in America. Founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts with Ted Shawn, which became a major institution for training dancers. Created numerous original works that combined various cultural influences, emphasizing the spiritual and expressive aspects of movement. Collaborated with many prominent artists and musicians, and significantly impacted the landscape of American dance through performances and teaching.
Continue Reading